Where Otterbein Stands

Campaign Overview

The campaign for Otterbein's future affirms that where Otterbein stands, and what it stands for in the higher education community, matters. This historic $50 million campaign—the value, the people and purpose for which it stands—will position Otterbein to stand strong among the great institutions of our country.

We know that Otterbein's founders stood for bold ideals—believing women should teach and learn alongside their male counterparts. We know that Otterbein's leaders stood for shared governance and establishing an inclusive community—leading by example and reminding others that all members of our community should have a voice. That Otterbein faculty stood as true educational innovators setting the pace for others to follow—first in 1969 when Integrative Studies was adopted as our core curriculum and reaffirmed just three years ago when the University developed a 21st century curriculum. And long before the value of service learning was embraced by other institutions, we know that Otterbein graduates stood as faithful, committed servant leaders.

Curiosity, civility, critical thinking and compassion serve as the ground we stand upon to embolden Otterbein's unwavering commitment to advance a greater good. And that is why... Where We STAND Matters. We will invest in our students first to ensure they are standing on firm ground for their futures.

Otterbein's Giving Campaign

Campaign Priorities

Access and Affordability

Ensuring Otterbein’s excellence is an opportunity families can afford.

Campus Renewal

Funding Opportunities

Comprehensive Campaign Initiatives

Campus Center Renovation and The Grove

Now more than ever, a modernized Campus Center is critical to the recruitment of students and overall student experience as the heart of campus to support academic and social endeavors. A renovated Campus Center will serve as a space for lifelong learning and community-building as part of our model community. Additionally, The Grove would establish a pedestrian mall and community space through the closure of Grove Street between Main and Home streets to foster a social gathering space en route to classes, dining and living. Learn more.

The Five Cards and Experiential Learning

The Five Cardinal Experiences provide a concrete, active, and authentic experience that engages students in real-world opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in the classroom. The Five Cards include:

Global and Intercultural Engagement

Internships and Professional Experience

Research and Creative Work

Leadership and Citizenship

Community Engagement

The Point at Otterbein and STEAM Initiatives

Otterbein has partnered with leading organizations from the private and public sectors in central Ohio to create The Point at Otterbein University, a new science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) Innovation Center that combines academics with the business and manufacturing needs of our community. Students work alongside resident professionals and complete on-site internships that can lead to fulltime employment in the community upon graduation. Learn more.

The Otterbein FUND

The foundation of giving to Otterbein begins with The Otterbein FUND. The Otterbein FUND is the annual cornerstone of unrestricted, current-use support for the university. Throughout the year, the FUND enables Otterbein’s leaders to seize important opportunities and meet a variety of pressing needs. Gifts of all sizes bolster the collective strength of the FUND.

Scholarships

Investing in scholarships and easing the financial burden of a college education is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Otterbein stands for opportunity and always has since its first days. All students—regardless of their financial circumstances—should be able to access and afford an Otterbein education.

21st Century Learning Spaces at Courtright Memorial Library

Creation of a second floor state-of-the-art common space that encourages exploration, creation, and collaboration between students, faculty, and our broader community. The space would complement the first floor renovation that was completed recently.